Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is an anonymous Middle English Carol, first written down c.1500. It was re-worked as a carol for Soprano and Tenor Soloists with SATB chorus by Peter Walock (1894-1930) in 1919. Itwasdedicated to Thomas Strong, later Bishop of Oxford, who had been Dean of Christ Church College during Warlock's brief time studying there, and who is better known for encouraging William Walton'smusicalcareer. 

While he is best remembered for his scandalous lifestyle and his large-scale Capriol Suite, the Corpus Christi carol ranks alongside Bethlehem Down as oneofWarlock's most sensitive and beautiful creations.